This week, the Inspectorate department received a complaint about a juvenile reedbuck allegedly rescued and being reared in a private home. Reedbuck are a TOPS (Threatened or Protected Species) and a protected species in terms of NEMBA (National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act 10 of 2004).
uMngeni SPCA is opposed to the keeping and/or breeding of indigenous and exotic wild species in captivity for reasons other than for bona fide conservation purposes, or for rehabilitation and/or sanctuary purposes in facilities approved by the National Council of SPCAs.
This is because a wild animal’s well-being is automatically compromised while in a captive state. Wildlife should remain and roam freely in their natural habitat. It is inhumane to force a wild animal to a life in captivity, where their species-specific needs cannot be addressed. These animals are often denied their 5 Freedoms and are forced to endure a live in captivity. Captive situations do not provide for the same physical, social, or behavioural surroundings. The proper care of wildlife includes but is not limited to extensive research, preparation, investment in building ideal housing, disease prevention, appropriate shelter, good nutrition, enrichment, and veterinary treatments. Despite all these provisions, the SPCA believes arrangements can never adequately cater for all the needs of wildlife in captivity. The conditions are artificial and do not allow for the animals to behave in a manner that is natural to them.
Key concerns:
Stress, illness, or death from improper capture, transport, and care.
Psychological distress due to confinement that restricts natural behaviours.
Swift intervention by our uMngeni SPCA personnel, in conjunction with FreeMe Wildlife, Howick SAPS, and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, led to the successful removal of the juvenile reedbuck from inappropriate domestic conditions. The animal is currently in the care of FreeMe Wildlife where it will undergo rehabilitation towards being released into the wild.
More about uMngeni SPCA